NATIONAL Trust properties across Hampshire are preparing to welcome families with a range of events planned for autumn. 

Here are the best activities being held across the county. 

Mottisfont’s Pumpkin Parade from October 19 to November 3

Follow the Pumpkin Parade trail to discover Halloween-themed activities, from pumpkin noughts and crosses to pumpkin rolling. Spot skeletons in the medieval cellarium, and climb, balance and crawl in the Creepy Critters climbing area.

For young children, there are tiny doors to discover, with Halloween pictures behind each one. 

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Hinton Ampner - scarecrow (Image: Zoe Cotton / National Trust)

The stableyard is Halloween central, where children can create their own pumpkin designs to add to the bunting on display. Pumpkin-filled carts create a colourful autumn backdrop, and in the kitchen garden there are more quirky gourd displays – perfect for family photos. 

As the leaves begin to fall, families can scoot around the grounds with mini wheelbarrows and rakes, filling leaf bins that supply the garden’s home-grown compost. 

On October 27, families can join in creating some land art in Mottisfont’s Beech Circle, using natural materials found in the gardens. 

At Hinton Ampner, from October 19 to November 3, there's the Halloween Potions Trail with Wilma the Witch. There will also be pumpkin displays from October 12 to November 4, with more than 200 to be found around the garden. 

Apple experts for Sparsholt College will also be at Hinton Ampner on November 2 and 3 to teach people about their quirky names, fascinating history, and how to grow them. 

In the north of the county at The Vyne, a pumpkin trial will be held from October 26 to November 3.

The classic Disney film Hocus Pocus will also be shown on October 5. 

For more details, visit nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/hampshire/the-vyne.